Compact Reviews of This Week's Compact Discs, For Those Who Still Care #6

Reviewed this week: Rosanne Cashe, Built to Spill, Kraftwerk, Willie Nelson and more.
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French, electro-pop duo made a splash with their 1998 debut Moon Safari, a record that seemed to strike a chord with everyone, even those not too fond of the electro-pop genre. 10 somewhat quiet years later, they are back with Love 2, which is supposedly a return to form. Haven't received a copy, so I can't say too much.

Jeez, they must be in their thirties by now. Haven't received a copy of this either, but I'm not complaining. Although, you'd be a fool not to recognize the pop perfection of their first few singles, especially "I Want It That Way."

One of the most popular indie-rock acts of the 90s is back with their first new release in three years. Nice, spacey-but-accessible production. BTS fans will not be disappointed.

PICK OF THE WEEK

This collection of songs, culled from a list of essential songs given to Miss Cash by her father, Johnny Cash, not only shows the warmth and soul of Rosanne Cash's voice, but the brilliance of her husband and producer, John Leventhal. Guest spots from Bruce Springsteen, Elvis Costello, Jeff Tweedy and Rufus Wainwright only add to this already magical album. This is not just another covers record.

First solo album in 18 years from the punk princess, Somewhere Gone, based on the snippets I've heard (wasn't sent a copy), is an acoustic-based collection of dreamy, alt-country tunes, very reminiscent of Neko Case's earlier work.

Five of the German duo's classic LPs get the long-awaited upgrade, with a boxed set featuring their entire output due one month later. Records available this week: Autobahn, Radioactivity, Trans-Europe Express, Man-Machine and Tour de France. Ja!

THIS JUST IN!

NO NEW WILLIE NELSON ALBUM THIS WEE....WAIT...WAIT...SCRATCH THAT.

30 tracks from his early hits and rarities, to greatest hits recorded live, courtesy of Varese Sarabande.

Fifth solo release from the Aerosmith axeman, Have Guitar Will Travel has some exciting riffage going on, but still suffers from not having a good vocalist, just like his previous four solo efforts. It's one thing to not have someone who sounds like Steven Tyler, but it would help if the guy you got had a bit of a personality. And Joe, I love ya, but leave the singing to Steven.

THE RAVEONETTES -- IN AND OUT OF CONTROL

The Shangri-La's meet the Jesus & Mary Chain, that's what you'll hear on this new release from the Danish Duo.

For more, please check ouy my blog, BURNING WOOD.

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